This picture of Post 50, District 16, Area 6 photographed in 1977, is one of 948 pictures of California in this collection of 11,700 pictures. The picture of the World’s Largest Redwood Tree Service Station (1936), Route 101, Ukiah, California is one of the more unique photos.
A photographer spent 40 years documenting America’s unique roadside attractions in more than …
Mary Meisenzahl, Business Insider
- The Library of Congress just released more than 11,000 images of roadside attractions and classic Americana into the public domain.
- Critic and photographer John Margolies took the high-resolution photos over 40 years of traveling around the country.
The photos document drive-ins, car washes, dinners, and other unusual structures. - A photographer spent 40 years documenting America’s unique roadside … American Legion Post in Paso Robles, California, photographed in 1977.
The Library of Congress is doing the important work of memorializing some of the US’ most oddly charming roadside attractions, from Googie-style motel signs to giant frog statues.
Photographer John Margolies spent 40 years taking photos during his travels around the country, documenting classic Americana like drive-in movie theaters, car washes, novelty signs, and more. The more than 11,000 photos create a picture of small-town America which Margolies’ told The Washington Post was an effort to capture quirks and oddities before every town absorbed the same franchises and chains. He also told the Post that he doesn’t take a photo unless he can get it in the sun, with no people or clouds in the frame.
All 11,710 and photos are available on the Library of Congress website. Some of these attractions still exist and could be road trip inspiration for a summer drive. All of the images are now in the public domain and can be used by anyone.
Author: Jared Morgan
Jared is the senior editor and web team lead for the Department of California and chair of its Media & Communications Commission. He became a member of the American Legion in 2014 when he joined Palisades Post 283 to find stories about veterans issues for a local newspaper while working as its news editor. He was soon brought in as 283's assistant adjutant and historian to help produce the post's award-winning community newspaper. Since then, Jared has used his media skills to help further the efforts of The American Legion in its advocacy of veterans and their families. Jared has also worked for several years to help revitalize the 100-year-old Santa Monica Post 123, formerly as its adjutant and as a member of its executive board, before transferring back to Post 283.
